Three Liverpool Men Jailed for Massive Drug Operation
Three Liverpool men have been locked up for a total of 33 years after police smashed a huge drugs supply ring operating across the UK. Detectives from Operation Sombrero, following a years-long investigation, uncovered a criminal gang trafficking over 100kg of Class A drugs and 30kg of Class B substances nationwide.
Record-Breaking Drug Seizures
The investigation, sparked by an Encrochat probe into Class A drugs like cocaine, heroin, and amphetamine, led to massive hauls. In just three months, officers seized 84kg of heroin — the largest haul by Merseyside Police in years — alongside 22kg of amphetamine, 500g of cocaine, and 6kg of Class B drugs.
Sentences Delivered at Liverpool Crown Court
- John McTigue, 41, from Toxteth, was slammed with 14 years and 8 months for conspiring to supply heroin, crack cocaine, and amphetamine. Nicknamed ‘Johnny Cash’ for his love of crime cash, McTigue was caught in possession of heroin worth £3-5 million.
- Leroy Kassim, 50, was sentenced to 10 years and 8 months for conspiracy to supply heroin. He was a known associate of McTigue and was arrested earlier this year.
- Terence Shields, 37, received 7 years and 8 months for conspiracy to supply cocaine and amphetamine, plus dangerous driving charges. He was also banned from driving for nearly five years after trying to evade police with 22kg of amphetamine and cocaine in his vehicle.
Police Praise Community Support
Detective Inspector Louise Hooley said: “This was a huge operation involving industrial-scale drug dealing across the country. Those sentenced profited massively from a ruthless business that destroys communities. These jail sentences show how seriously the courts take organised crime. We’re proud to remove dangerous offenders from Merseyside’s streets for the foreseeable future.”
“We work closely with other forces and rely heavily on tips from the public. Anyone with information on weapons or drug dealing should come forward.”
If you have info on drugs or firearms, contact Merseyside Police @MerPolCC, call 101, or anonymously tip off charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
